For being non –steroidal, Saheli does not have the short term side effects like nausea, vomiting, weight gain etc. which are commonly reported with the other oral contraceptive pills. The only side effects reported with Saheli (Centchroman) is the delay in the menstrual cycles in around 8% of the cases. Besides its use as a safe contraceptive for long term use, Saheli is also shown to be beneficial for treating dysfunctional uterine bleeding, osteoporosis and pre menstrual syndrome and as a drug for lowering lipid levels in the blood.